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Save the date ! Tropical Timber: From Legality to Market Recognition — a strategic roundtable at Carrefour International du Bois 2026 - Nantes, France – 2 June 2026

24.04.2026

A roundtable at Carrefour International du Bois 2026 will explore how tropical timber can move beyond legal compliance to become a recognised and trusted material in international markets.

Organised by Timber Development UK (TDUK) and the Association Technique Internationale des Bois Tropicaux (ATIBT), the session forms part of the UK Government-funded FGMC2 programme.

The session is designed for producers, importers and market stakeholders navigating evolving due diligence requirements and market expectations.

Taking place on Tuesday, 2 June (11:00 – 12:30) in Nantes, the roundtable will bring together voices from across the supply chain to address a key question for the sector:

How can national legality and traceability systems be recognised, trusted and integrated into international due diligence frameworks?

From compliance to competitive advantage

As regulatory frameworks such as the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) reshape global timber trade, the conversation is shifting.

For producer countries, the focus is no longer just on legality, but on demonstrating credible, traceable and market-ready supply.

For importers, this presents an opportunity to build stronger supply relationships, improve risk assessment, and engage with more transparent and resilient value chains.

A cross-sector perspective

The session will feature a confirmed line-up of speakers representing key points across the supply chain.

A particular focus will be placed on Ghana’s experience, including the implementation of the Ghana Timber Legality Assurance System (GTLAS) and lessons from FLEGT licensing, offering practical insight into how governance progress can translate into market recognition.

Strengthening trust through industry collaboration

The discussion will also highlight ATIBT’s work on a Code of Conduct for trade associations, designed to strengthen transparency, traceability and responsible sourcing across the sector.

By complementing national systems and regulatory frameworks, these kinds of industry-led initiatives can help bridge the gap between producer countries and international markets.

A key moment at Carrefour International du Bois

As one of Europe’s leading timber trade events, Carrefour International du Bois provides a unique platform to connect producers, buyers and policymakers from across the global timber sector.

This roundtable aims to move beyond policy discussion towards practical, solution-focused dialogue, supporting a more transparent, resilient and sustainable timber trade.

Attendees of Carrefour are encouraged to join the session and continue discussions during the networking lunch that follows.

Event details and program (more information here)

Tropical Timber: From Legality to Market Recognition

Location: Carrefour International du Bois, Nantes

Date: Tuesday, 2 June 2026

Time: 11:00 – 12:30 (followed by networking lunch)

Register here: